The call came in around noon Tuesday.
“You’re talking to the biggest fan in the Big East.”
“What? Say that again. You won. You actually won. What? You won the contest? The Volvo? The trip? The tickets? The $10,000 donation to the University of Louisville? Wait a minute let me get mom on the phone.”
A mad dash with the cell phone up the steps to the second floor. A scream, tears of joy, laughter, dancing, all the hard work, the long nights, the voting, the tweets, the e-mail to relatives, friends and fellow fans, the Facebook stuff, the Photoshop efforts, the formatting and reformatting of posts, the peaks of enthusiasm, the valleys of despair, practically conceding to other contestants, the waiting for whatever comes next, let it happen.
Steve had won.
His wife Casey calls later, full of joy, laughing, crying, having supported her man 24/7 with all the challenges in their lives, a died-in-the-wool Cardinal fan, his inspiration, never doubting her man.
What a day. Great day to be a Cards’ fan. Best day since joining the Big East.
The observer’s personal gratitude out to everyone who supported Steve so strongly and consistently during his incredible five-month journey. Some going way out of their way to help make a difference. Thank you so much.
That’s terrific news, Charlie!
Congratulations to the observer as well.